John Alex MacNeil

81 – Shenacadie

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, ‘Poppa’, brother and uncle, John Alexander MacNeil on Sunday, February 11, 2018 at the Alderwood Rest Home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Shenacadie, he was the son of the late John Hector and Rachel (MacKinnon) MacNeil.

John Alex was an auto mechanic by trade, working in Ontario and Cape Breton up until vision loss resulted in early retirement. John Alex’s abilities far outweighed his disability. He along with his wife Margaret Rose were very supportive of their community. They played an active role in St. Barra Parish, as well as the Christmas Island Volunteer Fire Department where he reached the rank of captain.

John Alex and Margaret Rose had many accomplishments. The one they took the most pride in was their two boys, Brian (Brandy) and John Pius (Katrina). Due to his early retirement, John Alex took on the role of ‘Stay at home Dad’. This was something he enjoyed and excelled at. He continued this role alone after Margaret Rose’s passing in 1998.

In 2011 he took on another role of ‘Poppa’ to his beloved Olivia Rose, followed by Breagh and Quinn. He is also survived by his brother Neillie, and sister-in-law Ann MacNeil, as well as many nieces, nephews and in laws who were near and dear to his heart. Also left behind is his faithful companion ‘Jenny’ who was his company and eyes for many years.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Margaret Rose, brothers John Hughie, Stephen, Allan Pius; sisters Tena Richard, Margaret MacNeil, Rose Fraser; brothers-in-law Freddy Richard, Albert Fraser, Jimmy MacKinnon; sister-in-law Anne Marie MacMullin and niece Louise Richard.

Visitation for Mr. MacNeil will be held on Wednesday, February 14 from 2-4 & 7-9 pm at Christmas Island Volunteer Fire Department. Funeral mass will be celebrated on Thursday, February 15 at 11 am at St. Columba Church, Iona with Fr. Everett MacDow officiating.

Donations in his memory may be made to the CNIB or the Heart & Stroke Foundation or charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be sent by visiting